More people are making healthy food choices during fasting as demand for health friendly food items such as fruits, fresh juices and yogurt has surged in the last few days. Sale of healthy food items has outstripped sale of bottled drinks and flavoured beverages with high level of sugar, say industry sources.
According to traders the demand for bottled juices increases between five to 10 percent, while sales of fresh fruits go up by nearly 20 percent usually during Ramadan. “The demand was as usual in the first few days of Ramadan, but now it has doubled,” said a representative at the Green Juice, a place known for variety of freshly extracted juices.
Besides a large variety of fruits, many leading shopping outlets are also offering fresh juices, along with the canned and bottled ones. “People start buying fresh juices and fruits from the first day of Ramadan, and we have seen the demand increasing sharply," said a spokesperson at Quality Group International.
A senior official at the Lulu Hypermarket said: “The demand for fruits like, avocado, apricot, melon increases during Ramadan.
Intake of fresh juice recommended
The official also said that the demand for snacks and cooked food items also increases during Ramadan especially from people living here without families and those who aren’t fasting.
The risks of heat-related health problems increase with fasting in summer due to a drop in body fluids and salt levels, say health experts.
They have advised sufficient intake of healthy drinks during Iftar and Suhoor.Fasting people have also been advised to avoid caffeinated drinks and beverages with high artificial flavours and sugar.
Healthcare Communications Committee on its website has recommended half a cup of fresh juice or a piece of fruit for Suhoor and a cup of orange juice during Iftar.
